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Alderman presses overhaul of cannabis grant language, proposes '1908 Race Riot Repair Commission'
Summary
Alderman Gregory criticized grant language that he said excludes people with felony records from cannabis-tax-funded grants and proposed a '1908 Race Riot Repair Commission' to review systemic barriers; the mayor said staff would follow up with the economic development director. Public commenters echoed those concerns at the meeting.
Alderman Gregory told the city council on Jan. 6 that language in Springfield's cannabis grant and contract templates appears to bar individuals with felony records from accessing cannabis-tax-funded grants and that the requirement discourages applicants. He said the restriction runs counter to the stated purpose of many cannabis-repair programs, which were intended to help neighborhoods harmed by the war on drugs.
Gregory urged the council to remove felony-related language from grant agreements and to consider administrative changes to make the program more accessible. He said some grantees have taken loans "some…
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